Square Mehmet Ali: A Glimpse into Kavala's History
Discover Kavala's heart at Square Mehmet Ali: a vibrant plaza honoring Mehmet Ali Pasha with neoclassical charm and cultural experiences.
Square Mehmet Ali, situated in the Old Town of Kavala, is a vibrant plaza that provides a unique glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. The square is named in honor of Mehmet Ali (1769-1849), an Ottoman governor and military leader who rose to become the founder of the Egyptian dynasty. Born in Kavala, Mehmet Ali is a celebrated figure in the city's history, despite his complex legacy. The square was created between 1931 and 1934 to accommodate the statue of Mehmet Ali, which was donated to the city by the Greeks of Egypt. The statue, crafted by the renowned Greek sculptor Konstantinos Dimitriadis in Paris, depicts Mehmet Ali with his sword sheathed, symbolizing his return to his hometown to rest. A similar statue exists in Egypt, portraying him on horseback with his sword raised in glory. The unveiling of the statue took place on December 6, 1949. Surrounded by neoclassical buildings and lively cafes, Square Mehmet Ali is a popular meeting spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy the atmosphere while sipping traditional Greek coffee or sampling local pastries. The square also hosts local events and festivals, providing opportunities to engage with the community and experience local culture. The nearby streets offer charming alleys and hidden gems to explore, with shops and artisan boutiques selling handcrafted goods.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and watch the city come to life.
- Try local delicacies at nearby cafes, especially the traditional baklava.
- Engage with locals to learn about the history and stories behind the square.
- Check for local events or festivals happening during your visit for a more immersive experience.
A brief summary to Square Mehmet Ali
- Poulidou 66, Kavala, 652 01, GR
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kavala Fortress, exit and walk down the steps towards the city center. Head left along the waterfront road, passing cafes and shops. Continue to Dimokratias Street, turn right, and walk for about 5 minutes. Turn left onto Poulidou Street; Square Mehmet Ali will be on your right. Alternatively, from the Kavala Port, head towards Dimokratias. Walk straight for about 10 minutes until the intersection with Poulidou Street. Turn left onto Poulidou Street and walk for approximately 5 minutes; Square Mehmet Ali will be on your right.
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Public Transport
Kavala has a reliable bus network. Take a local bus to a stop near the city center and follow walking directions to Poulidou Street. Bus tickets cost approximately €1.50. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
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Taxi
Taxis are widely available in Kavala. You can hail a taxi on the street or find one at a taxi rank. Ask the driver to take you to Square Mehmet Ali on Poulidou Street. A short taxi trip within the city should cost no more than €5 during the day. Note that taxi meters have two rates: Rate 1 applies from 5:00 AM to midnight, and Rate 2 (double rate) applies from midnight to 5:00 AM.
